GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The basic function of the Registered Nurse position is to assure client satisfaction, and the delivery of appropriate care through the assessment of need, development of a plan of care, case management, supervision of the Direct Care employee and provision of nursing care as authorized. This includes traveling to client's homes, exercising independent judgment, advance knowledge, and speaking with other health and community professionals. The RN Field Nurse reports to the Director of Nursing, has HIPAA unrestricted access to client information and is an exempt management employee.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Be a New Jersey Licensed Registered Nurse. Have the educational requirements necessary for a Registered Professional Nurse.

• Good professional judgment and clinical knowledge.

• Have the willingness to travel throughout the service area, including the ability to drive and have a valid driver’s license and proper auto insurance.

• Must have the ability to work independently and exercise discretion and independent judgment, effectively supervise Direct Care employee and direct the work of others, exceptional communication skills, a teamwork attitude, decision-making skills, and ability to function in a stressful environment with multiple simultaneous demands. Prefer prior supervisory experience.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE JOB:

• Drive to the client’s home to provide an evaluation of client needs including health, functional, social, emotional, and environmental, needs, develop a care plan, and case management for assigned clients. Assesses the situation for the appropriate level of care. These activities require nursing care skills, good professional judgment, and the ability to analyze information, good communication skills, and the ability to relate to a diverse population.

• Coordinate assignment of Direct Care employees to clients including changing assignments as the caseload needs arise to ensure adequate coverage and continuity of care. Exercise discretion and independent judgment in making initial assignments of Direct Care employees, and in making any changes in assignments as needed to assure proper coverage and continuity of care.

• Make and receive phone calls necessary to arrange needed services for the recipient and maintain an understanding of the development of the case.

• Maintain client records and other case documentation to standard including the complete, timely, and accurate reporting of visits and care information. Complete other required program documentation and reports as necessary.

• Supervise the Direct Care employee in the home to include reinforcement of basic skills, instruction and demonstration of techniques, problem-solving, adherence to policies and procedures, and yearly competency and performance evaluations to enhance the quality of care. Assist in the disciplinary process as necessary by making recommendations on disciplinary action resulting from violations of policies and procedures. This activity requires good teaching and interpersonal skills.

• Participate in the annual performance evaluation of the direct care employee. This activity requires fairness and clear communication skills.

• Resolve client complaints and/or service delivery problems document findings and make recommendations. This activity requires problem-solving and interpersonal skills.

• Maintain an adequate level of productivity to ensure maximum supervision of caseload.

• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of service, perform reassessments of client’s needs, participate in the utilization review process, and develop appropriate discharge plans; including referrals to other needed services, according to client needs.

• Assure service quality through participation in quality improvement and compliance activities.

• Prepare accurate time reports and submit them on time.